Mosquito- and tick-borne diseases targeted by health officials

State Public Health Veterinarian Doctor Howard Pue with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services says reports of West Nile virus and tick-borne illnesses are on the rise in Missouri, with mosquitoes finding homes near standing water and ticks hanging out in brushy areas … just waiting for victims.

Not all mosquitoes and ticks carry disease, but the illnesses are severe and steps should be taken to prevent contracting the diseases. In addition to avoiding the areas in which these parasites live, Doctor Pue recommends use of insect repellent with the chemical DEET.